German Chocolate Coconut Layer Cake

by

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot water or hot coffee (for deeper flavor)

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 egg yolks, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Chocolate Ganache (for drizzling):

  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Instructions

1. Make the Cake Layers:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
  4. Stir in the hot water or coffee until batter is thin and well combined.
  5. Divide batter evenly among the prepared pans.
  6. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

  1. In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 10–12 minutes).
  2. Remove from heat. Stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla. Let cool completely before spreading.

3. (Optional) Prepare the Ganache:

  1. Heat cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.

4. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a third of the coconut-pecan frosting over the top.
  2. Repeat with remaining layers and frosting.
  3. Drizzle ganache over the top and sides if desired.

Enjoy your rich and moist German Chocolate Coconut Layer Cake — perfect for celebrations or when you’re craving something indulgent!

Would you like a printable version or a shorter variation of this recipe?

Leave a Comment